Paraguay to Receive Powerful Dredge Donated by Japan During Crown Prince's Visit

Crown Prince Akishino of Japan is set to visit Paraguay on August 19, a trip that will include the official inauguration of a powerful dredge donated by the Japanese government. The dredge, named DRM-5 "Paraguay," is a vital piece of equipment valued at over $24 million, intended to ensure the navigability of Paraguay's rivers throughout the year.

The inauguration ceremony will take place during the Crown Prince's visit, highlighting the strong bilateral cooperation between Japan and Paraguay. President Santiago Peña met with representatives from the river transport sector and shipowners to discuss the operational capabilities of the new dredge. This initiative is expected to significantly strengthen Paraguay's logistical infrastructure.

Beyond the dredge inauguration, the Crown Prince and Princess Kiko's agenda is packed. They are scheduled to meet with President Peña, attend the dredging ceremony, and later participate in events marking the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay. These commemorative events will include ceremonies honoring the first immigrants and meetings with the Japanese-Paraguayan community in various locations, including La Colmena.

The royal couple will also visit Yguazú in the Alto Paraná department, a key agricultural region. There, they will lay floral tributes at a monument dedicated to the pioneers and engage with descendants of the early Japanese settlers. The visit underscores the deep historical ties and ongoing partnership between the two nations.